In this series, Science@NTU gets to know the 2024 CoS valedictorians. They give a quick overview of their time in CoS, and also offer a few words of advice on transitioning into a new phase of life. Next up, we have Bronson Lee from the School of Biological Sciences.
How did you end up studying Biological Sciences?
From a young age, I was captivated by science. Subscriptions to Young Scientist and Science Spy magazines sparked my interest, particularly in life sciences, as I wanted to understand the intricacies of biology and ecology. I remember being fascinated by the articles they featured, which introduced me to concepts like genetics and ecosystems.
When it was time to choose a major, Biological Sciences at NTU was a natural choice. The programme’s comprehensive curriculum and emphasis on research aligned perfectly with my interests, particularly SBS’ Undergraduate Advanced Experimental Biology (UAEB) courses with hands-on learning and research.
What did you enjoy most during your four years in NTU SBS?
What I enjoyed the most was definitely my time in the Biological Sciences Club. It offered great experiential learning for me as a student leader and it was most rewarding to see our projects come to fruition and make a tangible impact on the SBS and CoS student community. One of the highlights was being part of the organising committee for the inaugural CoS Challenge, a large-scale gameshow event that brought together students from ASE, SBS, and SPMS.
Through these experiences, I had the chance to collaborate with a diverse group of individuals which enriched the quality of our projects and fostered a strong sense of camaraderie among us. From there, I forged meaningful friendships with my peers who I know are never going to give me up or let me down.
Which experience had the greatest impact on you?
My semester exchange to the Netherlands had the greatest impact on me. Stepping out of my comfort zone to live in a foreign country for almost six months, where English isn’t the first language, was a profound experience. I gained independence, from cooking my own meals to managing my hostel together with my housemates. This experience forced us to adapt quickly and develop practical life skills that we had not needed to rely on before.
Participating in local events and traditions further enriched my experience, such as the Koningsdag (King’s Day) celebrations. I immersed myself in Dutch culture, learning about their history, customs, and of course, their food. This cultural exchange was invaluable, providing me with a more global outlook and fostering a deeper appreciation for diversity. I still miss Dutch delicacies like kaassouffle and hagelslag – they were truly lekker (tasty)!
What’s your next step after graduation?
I am currently under the Healthcare Management Associate Programme (HMAP) at the National Healthcare Group (NHG), where I hope to deepen my understanding of Singapore’s healthcare system and contribute meaningfully to the field.
Any words of advice to students who intend to study Science?
Stay curious and do not be afraid to make mistakes; science is all about exploring the unknown. Your undergraduate years are the perfect opportunity to dive deep into your interests in the classroom, laboratory, or in extracurricular activities. Even if things do not turn out as planned, they can still serve as valuable learning opportunities.
What advice do you have for your peers who are graduating this year?
Limitless potential awaits. Follow your passions and seize the opportunities that come your way. Regardless of the path taken, this is your journey. Remember to take the time to celebrate your achievements and reflect on how far you have come. Completing our Bachelor’s programme is no small feat, and this is just the beginning of the incredible adventures that lie ahead.
Provide a quote that inspires you.
“Never tell me the odds.” – Han Solo, Star Wars. This quote reminds me that no matter how impossible a task may seem, you will never know the outcome without trying. Who knows? You might even succeed in what was once thought to be an impossible undertaking.